Learning to Be Still

Being still is not something that I am good at. I’m a wife, mom, daughter, sister, friend with a lot of hats to wear during the days, and taking time for me is hard. I like the hustle and bustle of life, I like to be busy, and I like to have a creative outlet. I like having places to go and plans on my calendar and things to look forward to.

But sometimes, I need to be still.

It’s tough. Sometimes I feel like if I am being still, that constitutes lazy, and that seems to leave a guilty feeling in my heart. My inner voice starts to take over and before I know it, I am back at it– tackling my to do list or helping the kids with something.

There are days where I have to say “enough” and I just need 5 minutes of quiet. 5 minutes of peace to let my brain stop and process. 5 minutes for me. Sometimes, I make a cup of coffee and sit with my journal. Sometimes I stay a little longer in the shower.Sometimes I sit with the kids while they look at a book or watch part of a movie. I want them to know that being still is good. That it’s OK to want to take a break, and to fuel your tank with something just for you.

I’m a better mom when I can have a break. When I can get away from the routine and read something, write something, or capture something. I’m a better wife when I have time to pursue something of my interest outside of what the kids are doing. I’m a better friend when I make time for MY friends.

It is through learning to be still that I have really felt God’s grace. His grace is enough— even on the days when I need a break from this precious life He has given me. It’s ok to say “enough” once in a while and retreat for 5 minutes. Just know that you aren’t alone if you are craving a break, and it doesn’t make you selfish. It makes you a better version of yourself– and somedays, that is the BEST reason to be still.